Question

Groundwater overdraft occurs when _______.

Answer 1

When the amount of water withdrawn by pumping exceeds the amount of water that recharges the basin over a period of years during which water supply conditions approximate average.

Answer 2

Water found deep down the ground in sands and rocks is called groundwater. Overdraft of groundwater occurs when there is a reduction in the level of the groundwater due to depletion (or over use). In other words, when the use of groundwater exceeds its refill or recharge into its source (aquifers), an overdraft is said to have occurred. This will;

i. cause a reduction in water bodies such as rivers and lakes.

ii. result into a high cost of pumping.